Student Producers Get Easy Access to SAG Talent

Los Angeles (May 12, 2011) — For student filmmakers, access to professional-level talent has never been easier. The new Screen Actors Guild Production Center, located at SAG.org/ProductionCenter, now allows student producers the ability to start and complete the SAG signatory process online without the hassle of paperwork.

To work with SAG members, producers must become signatory to the Guild, and the new Production Center is a one-stop resource for these producers on how to do just that. Along with the online signatory application, producers can also find FAQs, sample contracts and downloadable, fillable forms.

“We think the Production Center is a natural fit for filmmakers who are accustomed to working in an online environment,” said SAG Executive Director David White. “And signing online is not only easier, but the turnaround is usually faster, so filmmakers can get to work sooner.”

The Production Center helps users stay organized by having all the documents in one place and making it clear exactly what is needed. The site guides users step by step through the signatory process, including instructional videos. And students who choose to sign SAG won’t be going it alone. Staff is available by phone and email to answer questions.

Daniel Andre, a student film producer of Transport from Pima Community College in Tucson, applauded the online signatory process. “It was self-explanatory…Very fast, efficient and easy,” he said.

He added that SAG staff gave his production the attention it needed, promptly answering any questions he had. “Overall, student projects, I have found, get pushed to the bottom of priority. But I really didn’t experience that at all. It was great,” Andre said. “ [SAG staff] was very accessible. Communication was perfect.”

About SAGScreen Actors Guild is the nation's largest labor union representing working actors. Established in 1933, SAG has a rich history in the American labor movement, from standing up to studios to break long-term engagement contracts in the 1940s to fighting for artists' rights amid the digital revolution sweeping the entertainment industry in the 21st century. With 20 Branches nationwide, SAG represents more than 125,000 actors who work in film and digital motion pictures and television programs, commercials, video games, industrials, Internet and all new media formats. The Guild exists to enhance actors' working conditions, compensation and benefits and to be a powerful, unified voice on behalf of artists’ rights. SAG is a proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO. Headquartered in Los Angeles, you can visit SAG online at SAG.org.